Junta (1975) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Junta is a board game that was first released in in 1975. It is set in the fictional Republic of Los Bananas, where players take on the roles of different members of the ruling Junta trying to accumulate as much wealth as possible. The game is known for its political intrigue and backstabbing gameplay, making it a popular choice for fans of strategic games.

Game Components of Junta

114 cards

97 markers

96 play money bills

6 dice

Game board

Rulebook

Family tokens for player identification.

How To Setup Junta

To set up *Junta*, players start by choosing the first Presidente through an election process. Each player represents a powerful family in the republic and is given a family token. The game board, which features a map of the capital, is used primarily during coup phases. Players are assigned cabinet positions such as the Minister of Internal Security, Generals of the three armies, Admiral of the Navy, and Commander of the Air Force. The game materials are distributed, and each player begins with a set amount of money and influence cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Player Count: 2-7 players, with 4-7 players recommended for the full game.

Gameplay Phases: Each turn represents a year and is divided into seven stages, including drawing cards, office assignments, accepting development aid, budget votes, choosing locations, assassination attempts, and banking.

Mechanics: Elections, assassinations, influence cards, military coups, and financial management.

Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most money in your Swiss bank account by the end of the game. The game ends when the President cannot draw sufficient funds from the development aid deck.

Player Experience

*Junta* is known for its complex and engaging gameplay, filled with political intrigue, corruption, and strategic maneuvering. Players must navigate elections, assassinations, and military coups to secure their positions and wealth. The game encourages negotiation, betrayal, and strategic planning, making it a favorite among fans of complex board games. Despite its lengthy gameplay, which can last from 3 to 7 hours, *Junta* maintains a dedicated fan base due to its unique blend of politics and strategy.

Pros

Complex and Engaging Gameplay: Offers deep strategic layers and social interactions.

High Replayability: Each game can unfold differently due to the numerous variables and player actions.

Satirical Theme: Provides a humorous and critical look at political corruption and power struggles.

No Player Elimination: Players can continue participating even after their character is assassinated or exiled.

Cons

Long Playtime: Games can last several hours, which may deter casual players.

Complex Rules: The game has a steep learning curve due to its intricate mechanics and phases.

High Number of Components: Managing the various cards, markers, and money can be cumbersome.

Personal Thoughts on Junta

*Junta* is ideal for fans of complex, strategy-rich board games and those who enjoy social interaction and negotiation. It is particularly suited for players who appreciate the nuances of political intrigue and are willing to invest the time to master its mechanics. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its length and complexity, *Junta* offers a unique and rewarding experience for those who dive into its world of corruption and power struggles.

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